Using Meta-Analysis to Test Theoretical Hypotheses in Social Psychology

This article discusses the use of meta-analysis to test theoretical propositions in social psychology. Strategies for identifying theoretically meaningful predictors are considered. Specific techniques for translating hypothesized moderators into operations are then presented. Finally, issues regarding the definition of independent and dependent variables are discussed. Taken together, these strategies and techniques provide a set of tools that enable researchers to take advantage of variability among the results of previous individual studies to develop or test aspects of social psychological theory.